Probate and Estate Administration

Comprehensive Estate Administration Services

Grand Rapids Probate Attorneys

Every state has different probate laws and processes. If you need to administer an estate in a Michigan Probate Court, talk to one of our knowledgeable attorneys to ensure you complete the process correctly.

At Damon, Ver Merris, Boyko & Witte, PLC, our probate attorneys work closely with families- executors, personal representatives, and estate administrators to guide them through the process of administering an estate in Michigan. Contact our Grand Rapids law office to schedule an initial consultation with no obligation.

Knowledgeable Probate Lawyers

When there is a will or a trust, distributing property can be relatively easy, though it can take several months to complete. If the estate is complex or there are problems with a will or trust, it can take much longer.

While we handle many small estates, our probate lawyers are particularly helpful when it comes to complex estates; those with substantial real estate holdings, a family-owned business, or stock portfolios. With our background in business law we can help you implement a business succession plan developed during earlier estate planning to ensure a smooth transfer of a family business. We can also advise you on the proper way to account for income generated during the probate period.

Guardianship and Conservatorship

When a family member can no longer manage day-to-day activities or financial decisions because of age, illness or developmental disability, guardianship or conservatorship may be the best option.

This is not a simple process. It requires you to go to court to prove there is a need based on legal disability. But when it is necessary, it is a responsible and loving action for family members to take. The lawyers at Damon, Ver Merris, Boyko & Witte can help you seek physical custody or financial management authority.

If you think an elderly parent may be having health problems, or may need nursing home care in the future, talk with an elder law attorney. A Power of Attorney can often accomplish the same thing as a guardianship or conservatorship, but it is easier to obtain and less costly to prepare. We can also help with Medicaid planning.

Probate Litigation and Will Contests

There are several reasons an estate may end up in litigation. There may have been no will, or there may have been a problem with a will: the deceased person may not have been competent to write or change a will, or someone may have exerted undue influence to force a change in a will. There may be questions about the management of a trust: were investments reasonable and proper? Has the accounting been done correctly?

We understand the emotional nature of will contests and probate problems and work to resolve these disputes without going to court. But when probate litigation is necessary, our attorneys can help you protect your  interests.

Contact Our West Michigan Probate Lawyers

For assistance with probate or estate administration, please contact Damon, Ver Merris, Boyko & Witte, PLC, for an initial consultation without obligation. Our firm can be reached by phone at 616-975-9951.